Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched trial operations of the Dubai Glydways automated transit system at Bluewaters, Dubai, as part of its efforts to develop a smart, integrated and sustainable public transportation network. The project introduces autonomous electric vehicles powered by artificial intelligence (AI) that operate on dedicated guideways, independently of regular road traffic. The initiative aims to provide flexible, efficient and convenient urban mobility while supporting Dubai’s long-term vision for advanced transportation solutions.

The project involves testing a new automated transit model designed to provide on-demand, point-to-point passenger transportation. Unlike conventional buses, which follow fixed routes and stops, Glydways vehicles are intended to transport passengers directly between designated departure and arrival points. Each vehicle can accommodate four to six passengers and operate at speeds of up to 50 km/h. The dedicated guideways can be built at ground level or on elevated structures, offering flexibility in urban planning and reducing interference with existing road traffic. The four-week trial will focus on evaluating the vehicles’ technical and operational performance under real-world conditions. Key assessment areas include autonomous driving capabilities, sensing and communication technologies, vehicle control, safety, reliability, journey times and passenger experience. The trial will also generate operational data to help RTA determine the system’s readiness for wider implementation and identify opportunities for future expansion across Dubai.

The project is being implemented through collaboration between Dubai’s RTA, Glydways and Dubai Holding. RTA is responsible for advancing the initiative as part of Dubai’s public transportation strategy, while Glydways provides the automated transit technology. Dubai Holding is supporting the Bluewaters trial by helping prepare the testing environment and providing the required infrastructure and operational support. This partnership combines public-sector transport planning with private-sector technological expertise to assess the feasibility of the new mobility system. An important objective of the project is to strengthen first- and last-mile connectivity by improving access between Dubai Metro stations, residential communities, commercial districts and tourist attractions. Plans include studying a proposed 2.8-km route connecting National Paints Metro Station with Bluewaters, alongside potential routes serving Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai Festival City, Business Bay and Mohammed Bin Rashid City. These proposed connections could make public transportation more accessible and convenient for residents and visitors.

The Glydways system offers a more sustainable and flexible alternative for short-distance urban travel. As the vehicles are electric and operate on dedicated guideways, the system has the potential to reduce dependence on conventional road transport and support lower-emission mobility. Its on-demand operating model and scalable infrastructure could also allow transport capacity to be adapted to passenger demand. The findings from the Bluewaters trial will help RTA assess the system’s practical benefits, operational requirements and suitability for integration into Dubai’s wider public transport network.